The spine of the human body consists of 26 bones called vertebrae. Located between each vertebra are discs filled with a jellylike substance that acts as a cushion between the bones. A slipped disc, also known as a herniated or ruptured disc, occurs when the substance from the nucleus of a disc leaks into the spinal column. Slipped discs most often occur in the lower back, but they can occur in any part of the spine. The most common slipped disc symptoms include sciatica, numbness or weakness in the back, neck, legs, or arms, and back pain that worsens with certain positions.
Discs generally are round and flat, and are comprised of the annulus, which is the tough outer layer, and the nucleus, which is the soft inner layer. Slipped disc symptoms often occur when there is a rupture in the annulus and part of the nucleus pushes through. The displacement of the jellylike substance can put pressure on nerves in the spinal column and cause pain, numbness, or weakness. Slipped disc symptoms typically vary depending on the location of the slipped disc, as well.
Among the common slipped disc symptoms is sciatica. Sciatica is when the slipped disc places pressure on the sciatic nerve, thereby radiating pain that starts in the lower back or buttock and extends down into one leg. It is often experienced as a sharp pain that can be described as being similar to an electric shock. Sciatica can cause numbness, muscle weakness, and difficulty in moving the affected leg.
Pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, neck, shoulders, or arms also can be slipped disc symptoms. These symptoms typically will be experienced in the area of the ruptured disc. A slipped disc that affects a nerve that travels to the legs, arms, or shoulders can also cause symptoms to present in those areas.
Sharp or dull pain in the neck, between the shoulder blades, or that radiates down into the arm and hands may indicate a slipped disc in the cervical spine, or neck. The pain may be increased with certain positioning and decreased with others. Slipped disc symptoms can also include tingling and muscle spasms. On some occasions, a slipped disc that does not apply pressure to a nerve may not cause symptoms at all.
A doctor typically can diagnose a slipped disc by reviewing patient medical history, symptoms, a physical exam, and results of diagnostic tests, such as an x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, or a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan. Treatment for slipped discs will vary depending upon severity and location. Oftentimes, symptoms of a slipped disc will subside with a certain amount of rest. Over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy may be recommended, as well. Surgery is rarely necessary to treat a slipped disc.
